Physical and Performance Profiles Differentiate Competitive Levels in U-18 Basketball Players

Evidence on how physical and technical factors distinguish U-18 basketball levels is limited, yet these determinants may aid talent identification and development. This study examined differences in anthropometric, physical performance, and technical characteristics between high-level (HL; n = 38) and low-level (LL; n = 35) U-18 male basketball players and explored relationships between technical skills and key physical attributes across all participants.

Participants were evaluated across anthropometry, physical performance, and basketball-specific technical skills. Statistical analyses assessed between-group differences and correlations, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.

Compared to LL players, HL players exhibited significantly superior physical attributes, including greater height (Cohen's d = 0.67) and arm-span (d = 0.65), reduced body fat (d = -0.58), and advanced performance metrics (10 m-speed running (d = -0.78), 20 m-speed running (d = -0.93), flexibility (d = 1.26), counter-movement jump height (d = 1.27), intermittent endurance (d = 1.18)). Technical proficiency in tasks such as 10 m- and 20 m-speed dribbling, maneuver dribbling and defensive sliding was also significantly faster in the HL group (d = -0.96, d = -1.05, d = -1.87, and d = -1.14, respectively). Several anthropometric and performance variables were strongly correlated with technical skills, indicating their relevance for distinguishing competitive levels.

These findings underscore the interplay of physical, technical, and performance factors in high-level youth basketball. Coaches may use this information to guide targeted training strategies that support talent identification, player development, and competitive success.